The Kistler Group had a highly successful Fakuma 2021 (October 12 – 16), where it showcased several new products and advanced developments for injection molding. Alongside the new functionalities of the ComoNeo 4.1 process-monitoring system, the new 4004A miniature pressure sensor for hot runners and 3D printing also attracted considerable interest. Thanks to its impressively small size and broad measuring range, the ultra-compact sensor, which will be available from mid 2022, can be deployed directly in the system. This offers new possibilities for hot runner applications and innovative processes like additive manufacturing.
The Fakuma 2021 in Friedrichshafen, which ended on October 16, brought exhibitors and visitors together in person again. “Although there were noticeably fewer visitors than before the corona pandemic, we consider it a success for us,” reports Dr. Robert Vaculik, Head of Plastics at Kistler. “Many of our regular customers came to talk with us, to tell us their requirements when it comes to plastics processing, and to catch up on our latest innovations.”
Thanks to innovative injection solutions from Kistler, plastics processors from a variety of sectors, such as automotive and medical technologies, can sustainably optimize their production, increase their cost efficiency and achieve a high level of process transparency – key factors when it comes to complying with stringent quality, transparency and documentation requirements. The ComoNeo 4.1 boasts new process-system-monitoring functionalities in response to market demands and users’ need for efficiency and simplicity. The new envelope curve function allows processes to be monitored without having to enter time-consuming settings. The system is now Wi-Fi compatible, and extended interfaces ensure reliable and secure data transmission. Furthermore, the latest 6196A, 6197A and 6198A temperature sensors can be tailored to various injector geometries, guaranteeing optimal integration in the molds.
Small size, big effect
The preview of the new 4004A pressure sensor for hot runner applications and additive manufacturing proved to be a further highlight at the booth. The newly developed compact sensor from Kistler, with a frontal diameter of just 3 mm, will be available for three measuring ranges from mid 2022. It drew numerous visitors – including plastics processors, original equipment manufacturers and engineers – to the booth. Thanks to its operating and measuring range of up to +350°C and its uniquely small format, it offers a wealth of new opportunities for hot runner and additive manufacturing. “With the 4004A, we are opening a new chapter in measuring technologies for our customers – providing them with innovative instruments that they can use to further improve their own solutions,” explains Vaculik. “We’re very glad that we were once again able to attend Fakuma and had the opportunity to meet our customers and visitors in person to discuss their requirements in detail.”
About the Kistler Group
Kistler is the global market leader for dynamic pressure, force, torque and acceleration measurement technology. Cutting-edge technologies provide the basis for Kistler’s modular solutions. Customers in industry and scientific research benefit from Kistler’s experience as a development partner, enabling them to optimize their products and processes so as to secure sustainable competitive edge. Unique sensor technology from this owner-managed Swiss corporation helps to shape future innovations not only in automotive development and industrial automation but also in many newly emerging sectors. Drawing on our extensive application expertise, and always with an absolute commitment to quality, Kistler plays a key part in the ongoing development of the latest megatrends. The focus is on issues such as electrified drive technology, autonomous driving, emission reduction and Industry 4.0. Some 2,050 employees at more than 60 facilities across the globe are dedicated to the development of new solutions, and they offer application-specific services at the local level. Ever since it was founded in 1959, the Kistler Group has grown hand-in-hand with its customers and in 2020, it posted sales of CHF 361 million. About 9% of this figure is reinvested in research and technology – with the aim of delivering better results for every customer.
For more information, visit www.kistler.com
